Yellow goat's beard (Tragopogon pratensis)

Also known as: Showy goat's-beard, Meadow salsify

Meadow salsify, or Tragopogon pratensis, is a widespread flowering plant found along roadsides and in fields across Europe and North America. Also known as showy-goats-beard, this plant has edible parts that can be added to salads, and its latex can serve as a natural chewing gum alternative.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting

Attributes of Yellow goat's beard

Lifespan

Annual, Biennial, Perennial

Plant Type

Herb

Plant Height

60 cm

Spread

25 cm

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

5 cm to 10 cm

Flower Color

Yellow

Images of Yellow goat's beard

Quickly Identify Yellow goat's beard

Milky sap present in roots, stems, and leaves.

Distinctive deep yellow daisy-like flowers that close around noon.

Large, dandelion-like fuzzy seedhead after flowering.

Linear, grass-like leaves with powdery undersides and curled tips.

Hairless, erect stem with a powdery texture and minimal branching.

Scientific Classification of Yellow goat's beard

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Asterales

Family

Daisy

Genus

Salsifies

Species

Yellow goat's beard

Planting and Growing of Yellow goat's beard

Care Difficulty

Easy

Watering Schedule

Every 4 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-75℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Yellow goat's beard?

Tragopogon pratensis prefers soil that is moderately moist. When watering, ensure that the moisture reaches the root zone, but avoid waterlogging. This typically involves applying around 250 milliliters of water per session, depending on pot size and environmental conditions. Water until the top inch of soil feels moist to touch.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Yellow goat's beard? ›

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What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Yellow goat's beard?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours

Tragopogon pratensis ideally requires full sun to partial sun exposure for optimal growth. This ensures the plant's energy needs are met, facilitating lush growth, profuse flowering, and prolonged plant health.

What is the best light condition for Tragopogon pratensis? ›

How to achieve optimal lighting for Tragopogon pratensis? ›

What are the benefits of providing ideal lighting to Tragopogon pratensis? ›

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Yellow goat's beard?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 75℉

The ideal temperature for growing Tragopogon pratensis ranges from 60 to 75°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and flowering, allowing the plant to carry out photosynthesis efficiently and support robust physiological processes.

What Soil is Best for Yellow goat's beard?

Soil type: Sandy soil, Loam, Sandy loam

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Tragopogon pratensis thrives in soil that offers excellent drainage. Such conditions prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot and other moisture-related diseases. Well-draining soil ensures the plant's roots maintain proper oxygen levels, which is crucial for healthy growth. The plant prefers moderately fertile soil conditions. Too-rich soil may not be beneficial as it encourages excessive foliage growth instead of floral development. A balance of nutrients supports steady and healthy growth without compromising flower production. Low soil salinity is essential for Tragopogon pratensis as high levels can lead to nutrient imbalances. Salt stress can interfere with the plant's water uptake and overall growth, so it's crucial to keep salinity levels low for sustained plant health.

How to Fertilize Yellow goat's beard?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

For Tragopogon pratensis, applying a balanced NPK fertilizer in moderate quantities like 10-10-10 is ideal. Use about 1 teaspoon per plant for liquid fertilizers and 1 tablespoon for slow-release fertilizers. Too little can starve the plant while too much might cause toxicity.

How to Prune Yellow goat's beard?

Pruning Time: Spring, Summer

Sharp, clean tools should be used to ensure clean cuts. Ragged cuts may become entry points for disease, so make sure your scissors or shears are in good condition. Avoid cutting more than one-third of the plant's foliage at once. Excessive pruning can stress the plant, reducing its ability to recover and thrive. Always prune with the plant's health as a priority.

How to Propagate Yellow goat's beard plant?

Propagate Time: Late spring, Early summer

Begin by filling seed trays with potting soil. Sow the seeds on the surface and lightly cover them with soil. Ensure that they are spaced appropriately to avoid overcrowding.

Water the seeds gently using a fine spray to avoid displacing them. Maintain consistent moisture without over-watering, as this can lead to seed rot.

Place the trays in a warm, light-filled area, such as a south-facing window or under grow lights. This provides the necessary warmth and light for germination.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Yellow goat's beard plant?

Repotting frequency: Every 2-3 years

Tragopogon pratensis should be repotted when you notice roots coming out of the drainage holes beneath the pot, indicating the plant is root-bound. Another signal is when growth slows despite optimal conditions. Ideally, repotting should be done in spring for best results as it coincides with the plant's natural growth phase, promoting better adaptation.

Select a pot that is one size larger than the current one to provide enough space for root growth without overwhelming the plant. The pot should have good drainage holes to prevent waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Clay or terracotta pots are excellent for promoting breathability and moisture control.

A well-draining compost mix is essential for Tragopogon pratensis as it helps prevent water accumulation around the roots. A mix that includes perlite or sand ensures that the soil remains aerated, reducing the chances of fungal infections and providing an ideal environment for the plant's roots to thrive and expand.